Ecclesholme Motor-Mobility Vehicle Presented by the Mark Degree
   
Sunday the 19th of January saw the magnificent donation to Ecclesholme of a specially converted minibus to assist the residents to get to hospital appointments more easily. The presentation was made on behalf of the Mark Province of West Lancashire by our PGM, Peter Connolly and his wife Lynne, to the two representatives of the RMBI, the Vice-President Dr John Reuter, accompanied by his wife Maggie, and our Northern Trustee Ian Newby.
PGM Peter Connolly with Bro John Reuter and his wife Maggie
The party of guests, which also included Michael Clarke, Deputy PGM and his wife Pat, Chris McNabb, Special Rep, both Wardens, Giles Berkley (with wife Sandra in tow) & Peter Hegarty, the Provincial Charity Steward Howard Emmett and wife Pam, were treated to a wonderful welcome by the Association of Friends of Ecclesholme - Chairman John Sims and wife Kathleen, the principal organiser of the event Mike Tonge and wife Phyllis, and Treasurer Stephen Gregory, with Secretary Michael Warren working as ever. President Gerald Bullough and his wife even put in an appearance to give their thanks - Gerald was well known as a leading light in the Craft Provincial Choir for many years.
Giles & Sandra Berkley, Howard & Pat Emmett & Home Manger Bev Niland
We were all extremely impressed by the very airy, scrupulously clean and immaculate conditions within Ecclesholme, due in no small part to the wonderful manager, Mrs Bev Niland. You can be sure brethren that the levels of care here are second to none, and the staff are all so friendly!
Lynne Connolly receives guidance from Graham Halsall
Bro John Reuter & Ian Newby receiving the gift of a minibus
After the reception of tea, coffee, biscuits and cakes (delicious) we all then proceeded outside where the sun was shining. Peter Connolly proceeded to present the vehicle to John Reuter and Ian Newby of the RMBI, after which the vehicle was duly dedicated by our Provincial Chaplain Graham Halsall, who looked splendid in his chain from Mark Grand Lodge. Finally Bev Niland took receipt of the keys, and proceeded to get in the back, as the first passenger, with Mike Tonge, who first suggested the donation over a year ago. They confirmed it was certainly fit for purpose.
Are they pushing the bus?
No need - the key has been found!
And the key is handed to Home Manager Bev Niland
The Mark degree has a history with medical vehicles - the Mark Benevolent Fund donated some 20 Crusader ambulances to the St. John Ambulance organisation a few years ago, and this vehicle continues that tradition of helping the sick and elderly.
Michael Clarke looks for the keyhole.....
Mike Tonge and Bev Niland are the very first passengers
A wonderful turnout for the presentation
Michael Clarke, delighted with the vehicle
Graham Halsall blessed the vehicle
The assembled crowd could not have been more impressed, both by the magnificent vehicle itself, but also by the gratitude which was obvious from the recipients. The vehicle will proudly wear the badges stating that the Mark Province of West Lancashire donated this vehicle, a proud sight for any of us who have ever given to the Mark Charities.
The PGM with Mike & Phyllis Tonge, and John & Kathleen Sims
President of the Association of friends of Ecclesholme, Gerald Bullough, and his wife
Read Norman Hiltons report here
Article and pictures by Giles Berkley